About Influenza (Flu)

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that is caused by more than one type of influenza virus strains. The flu can cause mild to severe illness in individuals and in some cases can lead to death. Certain individuals are at a high risk of developing complications from the flu, including the elderly, children, and people with chronic medical conditions (e.g. asthma or diabetes). Most people that are healthy will recover from the flu with no serious problems.

During the 2009-2010 flu season a new flu virus, H1N1 (Swine Flu), began to infect people. This flu virus was spread worldwide and became the largest flu pandemic that has been seen in more than 40 years.

During the 2010-2011 flu season it is expected that the H1N1 virus will spread and cause illness within the U.S. The flu usually begins to spread during the fall and the best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated. The 2010-2011 vaccine will protect you from 3 influenza viruses including H1N1, H3N2 and an influenza B strain.

For more information call our flu hotline at (216) 664-4621 or follow this link for more information on our seasonal flu vaccination schedule.